The series is set in a fictional world that resembles medieval Europe and is known for its intricate and complex political intrigue, multi-dimensional characters, and sprawling, interwoven storylines. "A Game of Thrones" introduces readers to the fictional continent of Westeros, where noble families vie for control of the Iron Throne and the Seven Kingdoms.

The novel follows multiple point-of-view characters, each with their own perspectives, ambitions, and struggles. Key characters include Eddard Stark, the honorable lord of Winterfell; Daenerys Targaryen, the last surviving member of a deposed royal family; Jon Snow, Eddard Stark's illegitimate son; and Tyrion Lannister, a clever and witty dwarf.

George R.R. Martin's writing style is known for its realism and its willingness to subvert traditional fantasy tropes. The series explores themes such as power, politics, betrayal, honor, and the consequences of choices. It also includes elements of magic, dragons, and other fantasy elements, but these are often secondary to the human drama and intrigue.

"A Game of Thrones" has been praised for its complex characters, rich world-building, and its willingness to explore moral ambiguity. It has also been adapted into a highly successful HBO television series, "Game of Thrones," which ran for eight seasons and further popularized the story and its characters.

Despite its critical acclaim and popularity, "A Game of Thrones" and the rest of the "A Song of Ice and Fire" series have faced occasional challenges and controversies related to their content. Some readers and groups have objected to the series due to its depictions of violence, sex, and other mature themes. However, many defenders of the series argue that it uses these elements to explore complex human nature and to reflect the gritty and harsh realities of the world it portrays.